Building off conversation among participants in our Flourishing Communities Table, seven people (six experts and me, a non-expert) testified before the County Legislature regarding challenges and opportunities related to food security in Tompkins County. Even before the passage of H.R. 1 at the federal level this month, we considered it vital to strengthen a partnership with the county to meet the essential food needs of all of our community members. Among the speakers were representatives of Food Bank of the Southern Tier, Tompkins County Food Distribution Network and No Más Lágrimas. Our testimony was well received. This connection will be even more important as changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) affect the New York State budget and many people who rely on that assistance. In future posts, will example various budgetary impacts and opportunities in more detail. The spirit United Way of Tompkins County shares is that together we can deliver local solutions to local challenges.
Here is my testimony to the legislature.